Spence Hails Squad Strength

Andy Spence hailed the strength of his Everton Ladies squad after Olivia Chance and Faye Bryson made first starts of the season in Sunday’s 5-0 home win over Brighton and Hove Albion.

The WSL Spring Series success provided a full debut for attacking midfielder Chance, following the New Zealander’s pre-season arrival after a successful trial with Everton Ladies.

Right-back Bryson, meanwhile, was named in the starting XI for the first time in 2017 and went close to getting on the scoresheet when the Academy graduate thumped a shot against the post with the Blues Ladies already 3-0 up.

Spence felt there was plenty of promise in their displays, and believed it showed his squad’s depth in talent.

“Olivia’s come in and been waiting for her opportunity,” he said. “She’s said herself she’s been adapting to the English game and she’s starting to get better week in and week out in training and her confidence is getting higher and higher each week.

“Sunday was a good opportunity to see her start the game. She made a good contribution and to get the minutes under her belt will be important.

“Faye started a game a couple of years ago but I’m pleased for Faye because we’ve got good competition in many areas now and that’s the exciting thing.

“I can see every week when we’re training that there are at least 16 players who are all wanting a starting XI shirt. They all understand that you’ve got to have a squad, you’ve got to have an even better squad when we start the new season as well and we’ll make sure we improve.

“That’s what the best teams have - if we’re going to be successful we’re going to have to have a really competitive squad of players who understand we need hard work all of the time and then go and show your quality and confidence when we play.”

Everton Ladies are back in action on Saturday when they host Spring Series leaders Durham Women at the Select Security Stadium (2pm kick-off).